Each year introduces fresh gastronomic fads in the realm of pizza, and 2023 is no different. Here at FieldMariner, we keep a close eye on what flavors are captivating pizza enthusiasts worldwide. We present to you our list of the top exciting and favored pizza toppings that are currently trendy.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gut health's importance has proliferated into the pizza sector, with fermented vegetables making a surprising ascent as pizza toppings this year. Tangy accents such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are now the go-to choices, offering a multifaceted zest that balances the full-bodied tastes of cheese and tomato sauce. In addition to digestive health benefits, these toppings provide new layers of texture to the customary pizza.
Our latest creation, the Fermentation Festivity pizza, showcases house-prepared sauerkraut and kimchi paired with gorgonzola cheese, all balanced with a splash of regional honey to counteract the sourness. While the mix may seem unconventional at first, it has rapidly joined the ranks as one of our most popular specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The momentum of plant-based diets has not slowed down, leading to an uptick in requests for pizzas adorned with innovative meat substitutes. These toppings go beyond the usual veggies, as novel plant-based proteins are introduced that even die-hard carnivores can enjoy.
We’ve incorporated plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, jackfruit shredded to mimic pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni into our palette of options. These meat alternatives are coveted not just by vegetarians but also by many customers for their distinct tastes and lighter effect on digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those with a penchant for spiciness are celebrating the focus on distinct regional chili variants over the commonplace red pepper flakes. Chilies such as Calabrian, the aromatic Aleppo pepper, smoked Spanish ñora, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and the spicy Korean gochujang are finding their way onto pizzas.
Our Spicy Global Journey pizza is adorned with an assortment of regional chilies, providing a series of distinct heat notes to various sections of the pizza. This fiery concoction has become a hit with our more daring customers.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The local food ethos is now diving into woodlands with the ascent of in-season foraged produce on pizzas. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which appear during their growing seasons.
Apart from mushrooms, we're utilizing spring ramps, oceanic greens such as dulse and nori, and spruce tips for a distinctive fragrant element. These components offer eaters a connection to the wilderness while providing tastes unattainable in commercial cultivation.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's role in sweet and savory combinations has cemented its place in the pizza realm. Expanding from the hot honey trend of previous years, 2023 has ushered in various specialized honey types drizzled over pizzas just before they are served.
We're experimenting with truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey. These finishing touches contribute a depth of flavor that transforms even the simplest of pizzas into a delicacy.
Honorable Mentions
There are other toppings that have not made the top five but still deserve an honorable mention:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pie, creating a cascade of golden flakes
- Pickled fruits such as peaches and plums, offering a tangy twist
- Grains of heritage, like crispy farro or popped sorghum, for a crunchy texture
- Spots of artisanal butter, especially varieties that are cultured or blended with herbs
Whether you're one for the timeless classics or a connoisseur open to novel flavors, pizza remains one of the most versatile and adored dishes worldwide. At FieldMariner, we honor the venerable traditions yet also embrace the new wave of culinary creativity—that’s reflected in our offering of both ageless Margherita and leading-edge pizza specialties.
Which of these trendy toppings have you sampled? Or do you have an exclusive topping combination in mind that you'd like to see on our menu? Share your thoughts in the comments or on your next visit to our establishment!